Kargil, Apr 25 : A large-scale plantation drive marking Earth Day was carried out at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kargil-II in Zanskar, where 800 saplings were planted with the participation of nearly 90 farmers, scientists and officials, underscoring a collective push towards environmental conservation and climate-resilient agriculture in Ladakh’s cold arid belt.
The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Saket Kushwaha, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, who led the plantation activity alongside farmers and KVK staff, before calling for stronger adoption of science-driven agricultural practices suited to high-altitude conditions.
The event brought together key stakeholders including Nawang Tundup, Prof. Dorjay Namgiyal and Dr Amjad Ali, reflecting coordinated institutional engagement in strengthening the region’s fragile agricultural ecosystem.
In his address, Prof. Kushwaha stressed that soil testing, timely access to quality inputs and sustained farmer-scientist interaction remain central to improving productivity and resilience. He also advocated crop selection based on agro-climatic suitability and market demand, while assuring continued institutional backing for successful interventions.
Earlier, the Principal Scientist and Head of KVK Kargil-II outlined the centre’s role in transforming agriculture in Zanskar through technologies such as protected cultivation, mulching and crop diversification. He noted that interventions under the Tribal Sub Plan and frontline demonstrations have contributed to improving farm incomes and strengthening livelihood security among tribal farmers.
The programme also highlighted field-level successes, particularly in bean cultivation using black polyethylene mulch and pea production, which farmers described as having enhanced yields and income. An interactive session allowed participants to share experiences and discuss challenges unique to high-altitude farming.
During the event, agricultural inputs were distributed to 21 Self Help Groups under ongoing demonstration projects, aimed at scaling up adoption of improved practices.
Speakers emphasised the need to revive traditional crops such as buckwheat for nutritional and soil health benefits, with Prof. Namgiyal pointing to the importance of aligning research with local conditions through stronger advisory mechanisms.
The Registrar acknowledged the contributions of scientists, including Dr. Mohd. Mehdi, for advancing agricultural initiatives in the region, noting that dedicated professionals continue to shape institutional progress.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sha Khan. The visiting delegation later inspected experimental fields and ongoing infrastructure works, with assurances of follow-up action to address pending development needs.
